Are you ready for the most important and long-awaited day? Your baby may be born sooner than expected, so it's a good idea to pack your bag to the hospital as soon as possible, for example, in the third trimester - around 36 weeks - just in case☝️.

This checklist will help you pack your hospital bag so you have everything you and your baby need. Then, once the bag is packed, keep them handy, either in the car or by the door, so you're ready to ship at a moment's notice.

Medical book. The most important thing is to pack all medical records so that doctors can easily see the history of pregnancy and your health☝️.

Birth plan (if you have one). You may have discussed your birth plan with your healthcare team, but having multiple copies printed and available to doctors and nurses means anyone can refer to it if they have last-minute questions.

Robe. A soft robe is useful for walking during childbirth or after if you spend some time in the hospital☺️.

Socks. Many mothers wear warm socks if their feet are cold during childbirth.

Slippers or slippers. You will need slippers that are comfortable to put on when you walk around the hospital room. Gather some flip flops to use in the shower😮.

Lip balm. Your lips may be chapped during childbirth. Having a little lip balm will help a lot.

Body lotion or massage oil. Some expectant mothers are helped to relax by a light massage from a beloved man. If it calms you down and helps you tune in, take a small jar with you😅.

Water spray and sponge. During childbirth, you may feel very stuffy. Then a small splash of water on the face and neck or blotting the forehead with a sponge with cold water will help.

Comfortable pillow(s). Your hospital will provide you with pillows, but they may not be suitable for you. If you have a favorite pillow, it doesn’t hurt to take it with you too🙏.

Relaxing vacation. Gather things to help you pass the time, such as a book, magazines, a tablet with downloaded movies or TV shows, or a music player. Create a playlist of positive and/or soothing tracks to distract, soothe and inspire you during labor☺️.

Eye mask and earplugs. To help you unwind in a busy and vibrant labor ward, an eye mask or earplugs may be just what you need for your well-deserved postpartum break.

Nightshirts. You need something comfortable to sleep on while in the hospital. Take at least one soft, loose nightgown.

Gaskets. Carry plenty of large maternity pads with you, just in case. After childbirth, bleeding is normal. Initially, you may need to change pads every 1-2 hours, but after a few days, the flow will start to decrease😉.

Underwear. Pack a few pairs of comfortable underwear that you don't mind getting dirty and that's big enough for these pads.

Bras. Take a few nursing bras or other comfortable, well-fitting bras☺️.

Toiletries. Don't forget towels, tissues, comb, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer, hair clips and hair ties. Pack a plastic bag to put your dirty clothes in ☝️.

Cosmetics and skin care products. If makeup is part of your regular routine, then don't forget your makeup. Also, make sure you pack some moisturizers as your skin may look drier than usual😱.

Glasses and contact lenses (if you need them). It may seem obvious, but sometimes these little things can escape your attention when packing your hospital bag. Don't forget liquid and contact lens cases if you use contacts.

Phone and charger. Without a phone, it will be difficult for you to contact your loved ones🙏.

Hospitals differ in their policies regarding what you are allowed to take with you when you have a baby. You can bring a few items from home, like your own pillows, to make things more personal. But keep in mind that hospitals may not have enough space😉.

If you like, pack two bags, one for delivery and one for postpartum.
Most women feel hungry and can eat and drink before giving birth, which can help support your energy levels. You can take some of your favorite foods with you. Choose snacks with carbohydrates that provide slow-release energy to keep you moving. Fruit, teak unsalted nuts, cereal bars are all good options👍.

The list of medicines should be provided to you by your attending physician, who will take care of your birth.

Do not forget about things for the child: 5-6 diapers, socks, a hat, warm towels, bodysuits, sliders and other clothes for the first days. Also buy a pack of diapers and wet wipes😮.

Packing a bag, the expectant mother is already mentally preparing for the upcoming moment. Even such a routine thing brings a lot of pleasure.